General Assembly: 110th Plenary meeting, 80th session
General Assembly
Date: 1 September 2026
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/80/110
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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GA · PGA [21:52]:

Good morning. The 110th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will begin its consideration of agenda item 63 entitled, "The situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine." I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, four and a half years have passed since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation and 12 years since the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. In those years, we have seen the human cost of these continuing violations of the UN Charter, even though it hardly makes headlines anymore. Yet the human toll continues to rise. During the first half of 2026, civilian casualties were 114% higher than during the same period in 2024. But these are only numbers. When we repeatedly hear casualty figures from Ukraine, as from so many other wars around the world, we can become numb to their meaning. But behind every number is a human life with a face and a name like us. Faces and names like 20-year-old Oleksandr, who, according to OCHA, was killed in June while repairing a roof damaged in an earlier attack. His mother, Halyna, survived and returned to the rubble searching for him. repeating the last word she heard him say, "Mom." The tragedy was compounded by the fact that their family had already moved from the frontline, deep northern region, in search of greater safety, only for the violence to follow them. This underlines there's no safe space left. Every part of Ukraine has been a target. as we have seen with reports of the six consecutive days of strike in Kiev, with non-stop day and night air raids, in a moment when school starts again. And all over the country, attacks have damaged civilian infrastructure such as shopping centers, residential buildings, schools, and hospitals, as well as damage to inviolable properties like the honorary consulate of Latvia in the city of Sloviansk. There have also been reports of civilians being killed in the Russian Federation. Additionally, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has documented repeated strikes affecting ambulances, rescue teams, and aid workers, including incidents in which responders were hit while returning to help. In recent weeks, reported attacks on Red Cross facilities in Ukraine have destroyed medical kits, hygiene supplies, and other relief items. The human cost alone should compel urgency. But also geographically, the war has seeped beyond Ukraine. Airspace incursions in neighboring countries are becoming more frequent. Latvia, Moldova, Romania are just the most recent ones. And the consequences of this conflict still extend far beyond Europe. For more than four years, growing threats to safe navigation in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov have carried consequences far beyond the region. These disruptions hardly make headlines anymore, but continue to have a lasting impact on food prices and access to fertilizers around the world, underlining again that this war needs to end in the interest of all of us. Therefore, the General Assembly echoes its calls for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. the Russian Federation to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine. The urgent need to end the war, the redoubling of diplomatic efforts to reduce the risk of further escalation and achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine consistent with the UN Charter. A charter, Your Excellencies, which cannot be applied accordingly to geography, power, or political convenience. As we have seen throughout this session, not only in Ukraine, but in Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar, wherever the UN charter or international law are violated, it is civilians that bear the cost, too often with their own lives. So today, we reaffirm previous General Assembly resolutions, not only for peace in Ukraine, but for adherence to the charter and this assembly's joint commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of every member state within its internationally recognized borders, be it in Ukraine or any other country around the world. The task before us therefore larger than ending the war in Ukraine. It is to defend the principles that make peace and security possible in the first place. It is about the credibility of this institution. If borders can be changed by force, if sovereignty can be set aside when inconvenient, and if the UN Charter is upheld only when politics allow, then no Member States can sleep peacefully anymore. The UN Charter protects all of us, but only when all of us are prepared to protect the Charter. I thank you. Before proceeding further, as agreed at the General Committee meeting of May 18, 2026, and announced in my letter dated May 20, 2026, I propose that the time limits for statements in the debate of this item be five minutes for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity and seven minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of states. Is there any objection to this proposal? I see an objection. In light of the objection made, no speaking time limit will be applied to the debate of this item. However, in order to be able to hear all member states, may I kindly invite all delegations to consider their statements to hold it as brief as possible. As that, I give the floor to the first speaker in this debate, Her Excellency Marianna Betza, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.


Ukraine · Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs · Marianna Betza [29:24]:

Dear Madam President, distinguished delegates, today, September 1st, marks the beginning of the school year in Ukraine. But it's not a good morning in Ukraine. Yet, on this day, eight people were killed in Kyiv, four people in Kyiv region, due to the massive ballistic and drone attack by Russia against peaceful civilians. Civilians killed in their beds, at their home. Among those killed was a citizen of India, and this is a stark reminder that Russia's war and its indiscriminate attacks have consequences far beyond Ukraine. Russia's war against Ukraine is not only killing Ukrainians alone. Every Russian attack is taking the lives of citizens of other countries as well, whether it happens in the Black Sea or in Ukrainian cities. It speaks volumes that just yesterday during the press conference, Prime Minister Modi himself spoke about the need to put an end to the war. And Putin's army immediately responded by killing an Indian national. We therefore reiterate our call on the international community to increase pressure on Russia to accept full, unconditional and immediate ceasefire. Russia has chosen a tactics of all day drone barrages, and a constant ballistic threat, deliberately targeting and exhausting our children and our civilians. Along the destruction of civilian infrastructure and threats to use nuclear weapons, the Russian leadership appears to believe that such terror can intimidate Ukraine, that such terror can lead to Ukraine's surrender or capitulation. Let me make sure that Everyone hears in this hall, Ukraine does not plan to surrender. Ukraine does not plan to capitulate. We will defend our land. We will defend our freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in line with Article 51 of the UN charter. Dear ladies and gentlemen, more than 12 years ago, Russia launched its aggression against Ukraine. Phase one started with illegal occupation and attempted annexation of Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. While we commend the General Assembly's resolution adopted in 2014 with a clear message that Crimea is Ukraine, the overall international response at the time was not enough. Unsurprisingly, soon afterwards, Russia proceeded to the second phase, expanding occupation to some parts of Donetsk and Luhansk region of my country. Again, this did not become a turning point in the international community's response and approach to Russia's aggression. The third phase of escalation started on 24 February 2022. Moscow again has used all conventional means at its disposal to attack Ukrainian cities, to kill Ukrainian people, and to destroy critical and civilian infrastructure. The consequences of Russian aggression are devastating. They're extremely evident in the territories temporarily occupied by Russia. Millions of Ukrainians remain under Russian occupation in the Crimean Peninsula, Sevastopol, as well as in temporarily occupied parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and other regions. Russia's objective is not merely to control the territory, but to transform it. To erase Ukrainian identity, to erase Ukrainian language, to erase Ukrainian culture, to sever ties between the temporarily occupied territory and the rest of Ukraine. International monitoring and investigative mechanisms, including the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, continue to document serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, politically motivated prosecutions, and restrictions of fundamental freedoms. Representatives of indigenous peoples, religious communities, journalists, civic activists and ordinary citizens remain subject to pressure and persecution because of their self-identification as Ukrainians. A tragic and profound example of the persecution is the story of Svitlana Loy, a 70-year-old resident of the temporarily occupied city of Tokmak, Zaporizhzhia region. She was a parishioner of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and a member of the local church choir. When the Russian invasion seized the church building and handed it over to the Russian Orthodox Church, the FSB subjected the parishioners to checks. On the electronic device of this lady, the occupiers discovered records of donations to Ukrainian foundations. That was enough to invaders to charge her with so-called high treason and sentence her to 15 years. At her age, this may amount to life in prison. Madam President, today Russia is preparing to hold elections to the State Duma, planning to organize also sham elections on the temporarily occupied Ukrainian territory, including in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. Ukraine calls upon all member states, international organizations, and parliamentary institutions not to recognize these illegal and sham electoral processes. These results are any mandates purportedly derived from voting conducted on the temporary occupied territory of Ukraine. We further call on states and international organizations not to send observers or representatives of this illegal electoral process is not to participate in any activities that could be interpreted as a recognition or legitimization of such voting. Distinguished delegates, Russia's unlawful actions and policies in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine increasingly affect our youth. What we are witnessing today in the temporarily occupied territories are not just episodes of isolated violations. This is a deliberate attack to erase Ukrainian identity. Approximately 1.6 million Ukrainian children reside on the temporarily occupied territory. More than 20,000 Ukrainian children have been abducted or deported by Russia in grave breach of international law to the territory of Russia. Today, we managed to return only 2,495 young Ukrainians, and thankful to all the countries and mediators in supporting us in this. The Independent International Commission of Inquiry of Ukraine has found that Russian authorities committed the deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children as crimes against humanity. Accountability for these crimes has already reached the highest level of the Russian leadership. And I would like to recall the arrest warrants issued by ICC for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova. In the temporarily occupied territories, Russia is pursuing indoctrination, militarization, compulsory assimilation of Ukrainian children. Ukrainian curricula are replaced with Russian ones. Ukrainian language and history are suspended. Children are immersed in pro-war narratives and so-called military patriotic education. The mission of experts under the OIC Moscow Mechanism has recently documented the system more broadly. the indoctrination and militarization of Ukrainian children, the imposition of Ukrainian-Russian curriculum and pro-war narratives, and the suppression of Ukrainian language and identity. Last year, the General Assembly made its position very clear by adopting a respective UNGA resolution on the return of Ukrainian children. We are grateful to the Secretary-General and his Special Representative for Children in Armed Conflicts for the efforts to advance the implementation of the UN mandate in this area. We encourage the UN member states to contribute to the noble efforts to bring Ukrainian kids back home, in particular within the framework of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. I must say that Russia spares no efforts to undermine these efforts. Even today, we do not have comprehensive and verifiable information about the children Russia has abducted. Let me give one example. Kristina Yakushenko was forcibly transferred from the occupied Kherson region to Russia together with her older brother, Oleksandr. Once in Russia, they were separated and replaced with different foster families. Oleksandr repeatedly asked to return to Ukraine, but he was not allowed to leave, and his Ukrainian documents were taken away. Shortly after turning 18, he died by suicide in Russia. Kristina was not even allowed to attend her brother's funeral. Today, Russia still refuses to return her, despite the fact that their family in Ukraine is waiting for her. And this is not an isolated case. This is a deliberate policy by the aggressive state to destroy Ukrainian families, to destroy Ukrainians, to destroy Ukrainian identity. Madam President, Russia's occupation policies extend far beyond political repression and violation of human rights. They are accompanied by the systematic exploitation of Ukrainian resources and attacks against the sectors that are essential for global food security. Despite the ongoing Russian aggression, Ukraine remained from the very beginning of the full scale invasion, a major agricultural producer and a reliable source of food to global markets. Our farmers continue to produce food and contribute to the global security. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has systematically attacked Ukraine's agricultural and port infrastructure, grain terminals and storage facilities, commercial vessels and maritime routes to undermine Ukraine's export capacity. Over the past years, Russia has damaged more than 1,050 port infrastructure facilities and attacked more than 240 civilian vessels. And just during the summer of 2026, more than 50 vessels have been attacked by Russia. Nearly 30 people were killed. These attacks threaten global food security change. Approximately 90% of Ukraine's grain and oil seed export are shipped through the Black Sea ports, while alternative routes cannot match the capacity of maritime transport. Recent attacks have already disrupted international food shipments and raised concerns about major food importing countries. There is no justification of this absolutely internationally wrongful acts of Russia. The international community must respond to them accordingly with strength and pressure aimed at stopping Russia's terror and protecting millions of people across the globe. Russia is also systematically stealing Ukrainian grain from the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. In 2025 alone, more than two million tons of Ukrainian grain worth approximately $400 million were illegally expropriated and subsequently exported to foreign markets, including through a so-called shadow grain fleet. Stolen Ukrainian agricultural products must be seized, not legitimized. We call on international organizations and all responsible actors to address such practices within their respective mandates. Distinguished colleagues, the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains extremely dangerous. After more than four years under Russian occupation, Europe's largest nuclear facility continues to experience gradual technical deterioration. While all six reactors remain in cold shutdown, critical safety systems still require routine testing, servicing and maintenance. The security environment around the plant has also changed significantly. Ukraine continues to document the presence of Russian drone operators, control antennas, relay systems, observation points, and other military infrastructure in occupied Enerhodar and in the vicinity of the nuclear facility. Russia is actively incorporating the protected nuclear site into its drone warfare infrastructure and exploiting the plant and its surroundings as a shield for military operation. We appreciate the continued presence of IAEA support and assistance mission at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Despite significant restrictions, the mission provides an essential level of international monitoring at a nuclear facility controlled by Russian armed forces. At the same time, monitoring without meaningful access cannot substitute effective verification. IAEA experts must be granted prompt, unrestricted access to every area related to nuclear safety. Russia must immediately withdraw its military personnel, drone units, weapons and other military assets from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and the city of Energodar, provide the IAEA with complete and unrestricted access and cease attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure that remains essential for maintaining nuclear security not only in Ukraine but globally. Madam President, Ukraine wants peace more than anyone. We want a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the UN Charter. We're grateful to all states and organizations that continue to invest their political and diplomatic efforts into achieving this goal. At the same time, we don't see any willingness from Russia to continue peace talks. Last Saturday, my country commemorated the Day of Remembrance of the Fallen Defenders of Ukraine. This day was chosen following the tragedy of Ilovaisk in August 2014. After promising a so-called green corridor for the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces, Russian soldiers instead opened fire on Ukrainian servicemen who were leaving the area. At least 366 Ukrainians were killed in the attack. And this is a true value of Russia's promises. Twelve years later, Ilovaisk remains under Russian occupation. Yet the lessons of Ilovaisk remain equally relevant today. Trust to Russian promises would result in new escalation and new death. This is why continued support to Ukraine, Ukraine support in terms of military capabilities and air defense, stronger sanctions on Russia, and concerted actions to undermine Russia's ability to sustain and expand its war are essential for achieving the comprehensive, just, and lasting peace. Ukraine wants peace more than anyone else, peace which is just. Peace which is based on the territorial integrity of Ukraine within internationally recognized borders. Peace where all political and military leadership of Russia are accountable for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the war of aggression. And I'm grateful to all the countries who are establishing together with Ukraine the special tribunal for the crime of aggression to hold Russia's leadership, military and political, to accountability. Ukraine will continue to exercise its right to self-defence. This is our right in accordance with the UN Charter, Article 51. We are protecting our land, we are protecting our country, but we are also protecting the security of Europe, we are also protecting the security of each and every Member State present in this hall. We definitely see the role of UN in bringing the end to this war. And we definitely see the role of UN of raising the issue of Crimea and all other temporary occupied territories on the global agenda. We need to deoccupy Ukraine. We need to deoccupy and return all our territories. And we are looking forward to the Crimean platform taking place very shortly this year. Dear ladies and gentlemen, allow me to conclude by addressing those Ukrainians, Crimean Tatars who remain under Russian occupation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, as well as in the occupied parts of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhia, Kherson and other regions. Ukraine has not forgotten you. The international community has not forgotten. You will continue to speak about you. We continue to raise this issue at each and every international forum. Ukraine will not rest until Russia withdraws its forces, until Ukraine restores its territorial integrity within international recognized borders, until the sovereignty of Ukraine is restored, until the just peace is restored in line with UN charter. Russia wants us to be afraid. Russia wants us to be afraid of further wars, further escalation, and further provocation. And Russia knows how to manage the fears of different countries. This is the weapon that Russia exploits against everyone. But Ukrainians prove every single day that we are not afraid of Russia. We have successfully kicked out Russia from many regions in Ukraine. We have deoccupied more than 700 square kilometers. We're holding the contact line. Ukrainians are fighting. We should not be afraid of Russia. Russia is much weaker as it seems. And the best defense is, of course, our preparedness, our joint efforts in terms of unity, in terms of more actions and sanctions on Russia, and in terms of more military support to Ukraine. Thank you for your attention. Slava Ukraini.


GA · PGA [46:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation, followed by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the European Union.


Russian Federation [47:09]:

Madam President, colleagues, for the eighth session in a row, the UN General Assembly has had foisted upon it a discussion of the situation in the so-called temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, and throughout all of these discussions. discussions of this politicized issue, we have not brought these discussions have not brought a settlement of the Ukrainian crisis any closer, not one bit. On the contrary, this topic is now an instrument of an anti-Russia campaign, using which Kiev and its Western sponsors are using a tool they're using with the GA's help to legitimize a one-sided version of events in Ukraine, portraying pre-prepped allegations as a position espoused by the entire international community. Madam President, the authorities in Kyiv, when talking about Russian regions which supposedly belong to them, are deliberately steering talks away from the main issue, that is, the causes, the reasons why the people in these regions no longer link their fates with Ukraine, and also about how the Zelensky regime treats these people. The entire issue the entire way this issue is portrayed as opposed to occupation by Russia of these territories holds no water neither politically nor legally whom the Crimea Sevastopol denetsk lansk zia and hason belong to for us it's a closed issue it's not up for discussion the people living there have made their informed choice they've tied their future to Russia They were prompted to do so by the policy pursued by the nationalist forces which succeeded to power in Kiev as a result of the coup d'etat in 2014. These forces persecuted the Russian-speaking population of the southeast. This policy undermined and definitely destroyed the trust of millions of citizens, trust in the Ukrainian authorities, and predetermined their desire to return to Russia. We believe that the expression of their will is an expression of their desire to determine their own fate. We believe that the plebiscites I referred to were underpinned by the UN Charter, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of 1966, the Declaration on the Principles of International Law of 1970, and the CSCE Final Act of 1975. That is the principle of the self-determination of peoples. We can deny what's happening or we'd like, They can engage in political demagoguery, but it's impossible to force millions of people to deny their identities, the fact that they belong to the Russian world, to deny their historical memory and the choice they made. They can't be denied this simply because the Kiev regime and their Western sponsors decided this. International law must be universal. We cannot recognise the right to self determination of some peoples and deny it to others. The Ukrainian authorities back in 1991 proclaimed themselves independent, referring to the right to self determination, yet today they are trying to deny the realisation of this right to the people of Crimea, the Donbas and Novorossiya. Today, Kiev's hypocrisy is patently obvious. The Zelensky regime is continuing to call Russian regions Ukrainian and to call the people living there Ukrainian citizens. At the same time, they're systematically firing missiles and UAVs at them. The calculation being that Kiev's Western sponsors will turn a blind eye to the Ukrainian armed forces atrocities. Meanwhile, international bodies which have completely discredited themselves, will continue as per usual, that is, remaining silent or issuing very cautious statements without attributing or portioning blame for these attacks. Rants about the reintegration of these regions can't hide the facts. People are not going to return to Ukraine, even though Ukraine is trying to seek revenge and to forcibly subjugate these people to Ukraine once again. There is evidence of this in the chilling statistics of civilian deaths in these regions. In one week, 17th to 23rd of August, as a result of Ukrainian armed forces attacks in the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol, at least 30 civilians died, 200 people were wounded, including children. The UAF on the 26th of August struck a passenger bus in the LPR. going from Lysychansk to Stahanov. 10 civilians died, six were wounded. On the 22nd of August, an attack on a city bus in Sevastopol, two died, 10 wounded. On the 18th of August, a Ukrainian drone hit a bus stop in Eneagoda. People were waiting to take the bus to work. One person died, three were heavily wounded. The tragedy in the Lugansk People's Republic in Serebryansk on the 22nd of May. encapsulated the inhumane policy of the Zelensky regime. A deliberate strike by the Ukrainian armed forces on a teacher's college and dormitory claimed the lives of 21 children and teenagers. Over 40 people were wounded. That's what Ukrainian reintegration looks like, the integration of people that Kyiv calls its own citizens. It's methodically destroying, decimating these people. While Zelensky is destroying these territories, Russia in contrast is restoring them, developing them. Just look at how these regions have changed since they became part of Russia again. The Crimea has changed a great deal. The Crimean bridge has been built, the Tavrida ring road, energy and utility infrastructure has been modernized, hundreds of various projects have been undertaken, In various spheres, federal programs have provided impetus to small and medium businesses, investment activity, and tourism. In fact, millions of people visit the Crimean Peninsula every year. Historical and cultural monuments are being restored. There are environmental projects being undertaken. Cities have been modernized, and this despite sanctions, the blockade, sabotage, and terrorist attacks waged by Kyiv. We've also seen large-scale changes in the LPR DPR, Zaporozhye and Kherson. Over 25,000 facilities have been restored and modernized, either schools, hospitals, energy facilities, utilities. Over 8,000 kilometers of roads have been restored and laid. Portions of the Azov Ring Road are included in this figure. Over 260 industrial enterprises have started work. Over one million square meters of residential buildings have been delivered. The number of participants in the special economic zone exceeds 500, and there are 383 billion rubles in pledged investments there. The main thing is that people are feeling the effects of these changes. Federal social support has reached 2.4 million people, and one and a half million people have been granted Russian pensions. However, Kiev and Western capitals prefer to overlook these facts. Territories which under Ukraine were simply an afterthought, their development was simply an afterthought. Today, they're seeing new prospects for development. And this is a very telling example for those who continue to call these territories rejoining Russia an occupation. A separate issue is the fact that the UN Secretariat is not talking about Kiev's crimes. Serious allegations are being leveled at Russia without anyone bothering to check the facts. For four years now, we've been asking for the UN Secretariat and for the SG personally to answer our questions regarding the provocation in Butcha in 2022. Time and time again, From the SG and from Mr. Turk, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, well, they're giving us pro forma perfunctory responses. At the start of May, we sent a letter to Mr. Guterres containing 12 specific questions about the provocation in Butjha. The Secretary General didn't give us a response. He gave us perfunctory answer. By way of conclusion, we'd like to highlight that unless the reality of the situation on the ground is acknowledged, there will be no peaceful settlement. to the conflict in Ukraine. As long as Kiev continues to cling to its illusions, rejecting the choice made by millions of people, as long as they refuse to address the root causes of the crisis, the Russian Federation will consistently pursue the objectives of the special military operation by military means. I thank you.


GA · PGA [56:14]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on behalf of the Benelux countries.


Netherlands (Kingdom of the) · Benelux [56:32]:

Thank you, Madam President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Benelux countries, Belgium, Luxembourg, and my own country, the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Despite countless calls by this Assembly on Russia to end its aggression and withdraw from Ukrainian territories, and extensive UN documentation underpinning the illegality of Russian actions in occupying parts of Ukraine, The situation for millions of Ukrainians under Russian occupation continues to worsen. The Secretary-General's latest report shows the severe human rights impact of Russia's ongoing illegal occupation of parts of Ukraine. We cannot stay silent about the fact that Russia, in the roughly 20% of Ukraine it temporarily occupies, has waged a systematic assault on Ukrainian identity and fundamental rights. Allow me to highlight three particular aspects of these violations. First, the occupied territories are marked by a wide variety of ongoing human rights violations. Arbitrary detentions and forced disappearances, torture, and the forced deportation and transfer of civilians, including children. In this light, we recall that last December, this Assembly adopted a resolution calling for the return of Ukrainian children. Cultural suppression is pervasive. Ukrainian language education is curtailed. Symbols and traditions are removed, and residents are pressured to adopt Russian citizenship to access basic services. These practices clearly violate human rights and international humanitarian law. Second, these violations are thoroughly documented by international mechanisms. The Commission of Inquiry has collected extensive evidence of crimes against humanity, including torture and forced disappearances and the forced transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission continues to report on these abuses and underlines the urgent need for accountability. Third, Russia's actions in the occupied oblasts reveal the profound human impact of its aggression. Families pressured to take Russian passports to obtain health care or pensions. Parents threatened with losing their children if they refused the Russian curriculum. Residents face intimidation, house searches, denial of medical care and social benefits, or detention for perceived pro-Ukrainian views for as little as a song or a flag on their phone. This is no longer about territory, but it is about people. about people who have a right to live in peace and choose their own destiny. As such, we do not and will not recognize so-called elections by the Russian Federation or their results in the temporarily occupied territories. Madam President, the Benelux countries urge Russia once more to withdraw from the Ukrainian areas it occupies, to cease attempts to erase Ukrainian identity, and to grant independent monitors full access. Accountability for all crimes committed and reparations for the damage inflicted must be ensured. We renew our support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter and international law. Justice must triumph over aggression. The rights and dignity of Ukrainian citizens in all regions of the country must be restored. I thank you.


GA · PGA [1:00:22]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on behalf of the Benelux countries. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its member states, followed by Finland and Canada.


EU · EU [1:00:36]:

Thank you, Madam President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union's member states. The candidate countries, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia, as well as Liechtenstein, Andorra, and Monaco, align themselves with this statement. Colleagues, Russia's illegal occupation of Crimea, Sevastopol, and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, and its continuing and systematic violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in these temporarily occupied territories, constitute a clear manifestation of its policy of subjugation and reveal the true nature of its war of aggression against Ukraine. After illegally and forcibly occupying these Ukrainian territories, Russia's true intent became clearly exposed to seek to systematically destroy the daily lives, the full employment of rights, and even the identities of Ukrainians forced to live under its occupation. You heard the Russian representative almost admit that, shameless. Just a few days ago, on 24 August, Ukraine celebrated its Independence Day. That date reminds us that in 1991, the overwhelming majority, overwhelming majority of Ukrainians in each and every one of the 27 administrative regions of Ukraine voted in favor of independence. And please recall, dear colleagues, that Russia did so too. But Russia's recognition of an independent sovereign Ukraine did not last too long, did it? In full violation of its multilateral commitments and its bilateral agreements with Ukraine, Russia illegally annexed Crimea and the city of Sevastopol in 2014, and then proceeded to illegally occupy other Ukrainian territories both before and since its full-scale invasion in 2022. Russia's illegal war of aggression blatantly breaches the core principles and rules of the UN Charter. Let us please not forget this, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. It constitutes a manifest violation of international law, including the resolutions of the General Assembly. Now for that reason alone, it must be called out by UN member states, as has already been the case on multiple occasions. Now, dear colleagues, let's focus on human rights. Despite being denied access, the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the UN's independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, among others, have documented Russian actions against Ukrainians in the temporarily occupied territories. They have documented that for 12 years since 2014, Russia has been persistently committing systematic, large-scale violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Politically motivated persecution, arbitrary detention and arrest, extrajudicial executions, widespread and systematic torture and abuse against civilian detainees and prisoners of war, cruel, inhuman and degrading ill-treatment and punishment, sexual and gender-based violence, unlawful deportations and forcible transfers of civilians including children, enforced disappearances, violations of the right to a fair trial, suppression of freedom of expression and freedom of religion and belief, persecution of independent media, journalists, human rights defenders and representatives of religious communities, restrictions on religious freedom, culture, education, identity and cultural heritage, discrimination and other violations directed against Ukrainian citizens by Russia, banning of representative institutions of the Crimean Tatar people, forced passportization, unlawful conscription and mobilization of residents from temporarily occupied parts of the territory of Ukraine. Colleagues, this is the UN's documented record. Chilling. Russia imposes its own occupying administration on the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine in violation of international humanitarian law and expropriates public and private property. You heard again the Russian representative almost proudly admitting to all this. Russia also restricts access to education in Ukraine's native language. It forces assimilation, militarization and indoctrination of minors and youth through education. Russia's aim is clear. It seems to change the demographic composition of the territories it occupies, including through the forcible transfer and deportation of civilian populations, including children. This is illegal. It is shameless and it is shameful. We call on Russia and its accomplice Belarus to immediately end the grave violation of child deportation and forcible transfer, which according to the Commission of Inquiry constitute war crimes, to stop the illegal adoptions of Ukrainian children and to ensure the immediate safe and unconditional return of all unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred Ukrainian children as per the resolution adopted by this Assembly last December. We urge the international community to join the calls for an immediate safe and unconditional release of all political prisoners and arbitrarily detained civilians by the Russian Federation and for enhanced international monitoring of the human rights security and humanitarian situation in the temporarily occupied territories. We must ensure immediate and unhindered access by OHCHR and relevant UN special procedures, including visits to all places of deprivation of liberty, and by supporting the preservation and professional handling of evidence in line with international standards. Colleagues, Crimea, Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia, they are Ukraine. The EU will never recognize as lawful any purported annexation of Ukraine territory by Russia, nor will we recognize the forced Russification of their people and their communities, or the results of any illegal so-called elections organized by the Russian occupation administration in the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. The Ukrainian people, like all people, deserve a secure, independent future, free from war and free from coercion. To achieve that, the EU will continue to provide political, financial, economic, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine as it exercises its inherent right of self-defense while addressing humanitarian and needs and supporting all diplomatic efforts to bring this war to an end. Colleagues, for this to happen, Russia must stop its illegal war of aggression and its occupation of Ukraine. It must accept an unconditional, immediate, and comprehensive ceasefire. And it must come to the negotiating table to achieve a just and lasting peace in line with international law, including the UN Charter. Instead, Russia has intensified its murderous attacks against civilians in the past days, weeks, and months. This is illegal. It is shameful. And it is shameless. Member states in this room must tell Russia so. Thank you.


GA · PGA [1:09:34]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its member states. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Finland on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.


Finland · Nordic-Baltic states [1:09:57]:

Madam President, distinguished colleagues, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states, Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland. On August 24th, we commemorated 35 years of Ukrainian independence. That independence was endorsed overwhelmingly by Ukrainian people in 1991. It was also recognized by the international community, including Russian Federation, who thereby acknowledged Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We condemn in the strongest terms Russia's continued war of aggression and its deliberate attacks against civilian and civilian infrastructure. According to international law, Ukraine's right to territorial integrity remains unequivocal. Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Crimea remain part of Ukraine. Yet most of these territories are now under unlawful occupation by Russian Federation. Madam President, Russian attacks on civilians and civilian objects have been increasing dramatically in 2026. Attacks on humanitarian workers, facilities and objects. and civilian infrastructure have also intensified, and the number of civilian casualties is the highest since March 2022. The situation of civilians in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine is particularly alarming, as they are exposed to continuous and systematic repression. The people in the temporarily Russian occupied territories of Ukraine are in an extremely vulnerable position. Crave international human rights law and international human law, humanitarian law violations against Ukrainians have been reported in growing numbers, particularly since Russia launched its full scale invasion. United Nations independent investigators have continued to report mass arbitrary detentions, and widespread torture of both civilians, detainees, and prisoners of war. International reports and media have further drawn attention to systematic sexual violence against Ukrainians held in Russian detention, as well as abuses against women and children in the occupied territories. Human rights organizations have documented large-scale forced transfer and unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children, and Ukrainian authorities have reported methodical efforts to eradicate Ukrainian national identity in occupied areas, including through militarization, indoctrination, and illegal adoption of children. In addition to these alarming findings, an estimated one million people in the occupied territories of Ukraine need humanitarian assistance, while humanitarian access continues to be severely restricted by Russia. We call on Russia to provide unimpeded access to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine for the United Nations, international monitors, and humanitarian organizations. The Nordic and Baltic states reaffirm our commitment to ensuring accountability for international crimes and other violations of international law committed in the context of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. We remain firmly committed to the establishment of the special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine and continue our steadfast support for the efforts of the International Criminal Court. Madam President, the reality on the ground in the occupied Ukrainian territories is in stark contrast with the obligations placed on states under international humanitarian law. The occupying power is obliged to ensure the humane treatment and the basic needs of the local population and to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches civilians whose essential needs are not otherwise met. It is clear that Russia is not striving to fulfill these obligations. We, the Nordic and Baltic states, call on Russia to immediately and fully comply with its obligations under international law. And finally, Madam President, we demand an immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of all Russian military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is a precondition for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Respect for internationally recognized borders is a cornerstone of international law and an indispensable condition for peace and security. Our support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders remains unwavering. I thank you.


GA · PGA [1:15:56]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Finland on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada on behalf of Canada, Australia and New Zealand, followed by Switzerland and Italy.


Canada · CANZ [1:16:17]:

Madam President, I have the honour to speak on behalf of Australia, New Zealand, and my own country, Canada. Last week, on August 24th, we marked the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. We celebrated Ukraine as it is recognized under international law, within its internationally recognized borders. Every temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine by the Russian Federation is Ukraine. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Russia's unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression violates the UN Charter. It strikes at the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence that underpin this organization. We therefore firmly reject and will never recognize the illegal so-called elections organized by Russia in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, nor any attempt to use them to legitimize Russia's unlawful occupation. The planned September 2026 elections in these territories are the latest attempt to entrench and legitimize Russia's illegal occupation. We call on all member states to reject attempts to redraw borders by force. Colleagues, Ukrainians feel the consequences of Russia's brutal aggression every day. Ukrainians have shown extraordinary courage, but they should not be expected to endure the unendurable without consistent, principled support. In the temporarily occupied territories, human rights violations, repression, gender-based violence, and forced re-education have become a grim reality of daily life. Russia does not want the world to see what is happening in these territories, or how it uses coercion, forced assimilation, and indoctrination to erase Ukrainian identity, to entrench its occupation. Earlier this year, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry concluded that the deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children and their enforced disappearance amount to crimes against humanity. The commission has also documented what appears to be a systematic torture and ill treatment of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, exposing a system of abuse and impunity. The international community must intensify all efforts to support the return of deported Ukrainian children, prisoners of war, and unlawfully detained civilians. On September 28 to 29, my own country, Canada, together with Ukraine and Norway, will convene in Toronto under the theme Pathways to Peace, the second ministerial conference on returning Ukrainian children, detained civilians, and prisoners of war. The conference reflects our determination to return those unlawfully taken, support survivors and their families, and ensure that human suffering never becomes normalized. There can be no impunity for crimes committed in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. We recognize the increasing risks posed by drone strikes and other weapons on humanitarian workers who seek to help those harmed by Russia's aggression. We condemn all attacks on humanitarian workers wherever they take place, and we call on all states to support and implement the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel. Russia must allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine in accordance with international humanitarian law. We call on countries that continue to support Russia's war effort to cease enabling its aggression and violations of international law. Russia's war extends far beyond Ukraine. Its consequences are felt in global food security, energy security, and the integrity of the international rules-based order. We welcome efforts to advance a diplomatic path towards peace and support all credible initiatives aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace. Any peace settlement must be grounded in international law, including the UN Charter, uphold Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and ensure that Russia's war of aggression can never be repeated. We stand unwavering in our commitment to help Ukraine protect its freedom, restore its territorial integrity, and rebuild a stronger future. I thank you.


GA · PGA [1:21:34]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.


Switzerland [1:21:57]:

Mr. President, Switzerland reaffirms its support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders. In this context, Switzerland condemns the referendum held in Crimea on March 16, 2014, as well as Russia's annexation of the peninsula and the other Ukrainian territories in 2022. These acts constitute serious violations of international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. Switzerland remains deeply concerned about the serious and persistent violations of international humanitarian law and human rights documented by the UN in the Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied by Russia, including arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, acts of torture, sexual violence, and the forced transfer of civilians, including children. The imposition of Russian citizenship, forced conscription and the militarization of education constitute serious violations that must cease immediately. We also call on Russia to immediately allow safe and unimpeded access for international and regional monitoring mechanisms. in accordance with resolution 80/223 to ensure direct and credible monitoring. More generally, Switzerland is deeply alarmed by the escalation of hostilities and the growing number of reports of civilian casualties and damage to civilian property. We are particularly concerned about the intensification of air strikes and the long-range attacks targeting urban and densely populated areas in Ukraine, which are leading to an unacceptable rise in civilian casualties. In this context, we reiterate the obligation of all parties to strictly respect international humanitarian law and human rights. The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution must be respected under all circumstances. The protection of civilians and civilian objects must remain an absolute priority and they must never be targeted. Finally, Switzerland emphasizes the need to ensure safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to all populations affected by the conflict, so that aid can reach all those in need without delay. Mr. President, since 2014, the General Assembly has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Switzerland underscores the importance of fully implementing these resolutions. We once again call for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory and an immediate ceasefire. Switzerland will continue to support efforts towards a just and lasting peace based on the United Nations Charter and international law. Thank you.


GA · PGA [1:25:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy.


Italy [1:26:17]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Italy fully aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add some remarks on its national capacity. After four and a half years of war, still no place is safe in Ukraine and in its temporarily occupied territories. And we commend the extraordinary resilience of the Ukrainian population. Since the beginning of this brutal war of aggression, Italy has strongly condemned Russia's unacceptable violation in Donetsk and Luhansk. They are violations of the principles of international law and human rights enshrined in the UN charter. Italy also reaffirms its non-recognition of the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula and reiterates its unwavering support to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Mr. President, the Ukrainian civilian population continues to bear the heaviest burden. Too many Ukrainian children remain under Russian control in temporarily occupied territories, or have been forcibly deported. Every child has the right to be safe with their families in their homeland at all times. The indoctrination and the pressure on young people into military service are Moscow's attempts to deprive the Ukrainian people of their identity and future. Immediate and unhindered humanitarian assistance must be ensured. Italy has mobilized more than 3.2 billion euros in support of Ukraine, providing assistance across the areas of humanitarian aid, reconstruction, energy, and development. We will continue to support Ukraine and stand firm alongside the Ukrainian people. In coordination with its European partners and allies, Italy will remain committed to promoting a negotiating process towards a just and lasting peace, in line with the resolution adopted last 24th February by the General Assembly. Ceasefire and a just and lasting peace remain our main priorities. The United Nations has a unique role to play, and we support all the efforts to end this war. that had disastrous humanitarian and economic consequences at the global level. I thank you, Mr. President.


GA · PGA [1:29:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom.


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [1:29:32]:

Thank you, Mr. President. It is 1,651 days since Russia began her illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine and 12 years since her illegal annexation of Crimea. Russia's attacks are escalating, launching at least 429 missiles into Ukraine in July alone. more than double the month before. And Ukrainian civilians are paying the price. Almost 17,000 Ukrainian civilians, including 820 children, have been killed in Ukraine since February 2022. And over 51,000 civilians, including 3,000 children, have been injured. Before Russia's 2022 invasion, Ukraine accounted for 12% of global corn exports, 10% of wheat, 50% of sunflower oil. But Russian strikes on Ukraine's ports and civilian shipping have also escalated, blocking vital food supplies, contributing to higher food prices worldwide, and killing seafarers from UN member states from Africa to Asia. Mr. President, Russia's war in Ukraine is a clear violation of our United Nations charter and of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. These are key principles, principles that bind every United Nations member state. Russia has invaded Crimea, and areas in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhia oblasts and uses violence to consolidate control within them. Families are separated, children forcibly deported and indoctrinated and their names changed, Ukrainians forced to take Russian passports, Ukrainian civic leaders arbitrarily detained and disappeared, torture, ill treatment, Communities left for days without water, without access to humanitarian aid, and Ukraine's cultural heritage erased and her language suppressed. Russia's occupation and attempted illegal annexations are inflicting a terrible toll on Ukrainians living in these territories. But these actions do not change Russia's Ukraine sovereignty. nor do they rewrite her borders. And so today we call on all states to uphold the UN Charter, to reject Russia's illegal claims, to press Russia to allow humanitarian access, and to support accountability to help get Ukraine's children back home and her civilians released. The United Kingdom will stand with Ukraine as she exercises her lawful right to self-defence in accordance with Article 51 of our United Nations Charter, today and for as long as it takes. We support Ukraine's call for a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire and a just and lasting peace, and we urge Russia to commit to the same. Thank you.


GA · PGA [1:33:19]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania.


Romania [1:33:37]:

President, Romania aligns with the EU statement. We take the floor to once more reject the war of aggression against Ukraine, a blatant violation of international law. and to speak in defense of UN Charter's core principles of independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity applicable to all nations. Through the adoption last February of the resolution support for lasting peace in Ukraine, the General Assembly called for diplomacy and peace, reconfirming the international community's commitment to those principles of the Charter. Yet again, as we speak, The aggression continues to inflict grievance and destruction upon Ukraine, as Russia fails to stand up to its responsibility to stop the war, cease its occupation, and return to the respect of the UN Charter and international law. Be it in Europe or elsewhere, by now, we all felt the impact of this war. In our region alone, The aggressor's intensified strikes on Ukraine's ports and commercial shipping on the Danube and in the Black Sea reignite the risk of critical disruptions to global food supply chains and maritime insecurity. Several neighbors of Ukraine, including my country, continue to face unacceptable drone incursions for which the aggressor bears full responsibility. But let us be clear, our support for Ukraine remains unwavering. Romania will stand with Ukraine and its people in their legitimate self-defense and in the exercise of their sovereign right to freely choose their future. Romania will remain a responsible and committed partner for the international community in addressing the regional and global risks of this war of aggression. And as we do so, in helping Ukrainians who transited or sought shelter in our country and by facilitating the transit of Ukrainian grain to global markets. President, we reiterate our support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Romania recalls its non-recognition of the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol and of the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson, which is flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act. They remain an inalienable part of the national territory of Ukraine in accordance with international law. Reports about the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine remain disturbing as they continue to document persistent large-scale violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including restrictions on freedom of expression and opinion, unlawful and arbitrary detention of civilians, widespread torture and ill-treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees. forced conscriptions, a systematic imposition of the occupier's educational system, and the militarization of education. The Secretary-General's report on the situation of human rights in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, shows that civilians in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine continue to be subjected to widespread and systematic human rights violations by the occupying authorities. The Secretary-General's report on conflict-related sexual violence listed the aggressor, for the first time, for committing conflict sexual-related violence against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians. Credible evidence has been documented, including through the Secretary General's report on children and armed conflict, on the forcible transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children in violation of the universal and inalienable right of every child to live in safety with their family, including during armed conflict and occupation. However, no statistics can fully encapsulate the grievance endured by Ukrainian civilians facing aggression and occupation. Russia must cease all such practices that violate international law and its international humanitarian and human rights obligations and to ensure unfettered access to OHCHR and other international human rights monitoring mechanisms. All unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred Ukrainian children must be returned, and we continue to support further progress through the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children and the implementation of the General Assembly resolution Return of Ukrainian Children. We support Ukraine in ensuring justice through accountability mechanisms, such as the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. President, This assembly expects Russia to change course towards peace and to respond to repeated calls for a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire and to meaningfully engage in negotiations for a just and lasting peace, matching Ukraine's proven commitment in this regard. Romania will continue to support all efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with UN Charter and international law, with robust and workable security guarantees for Ukraine. The aggression must stop. The occupation must stop. Respect for UN Charter must be restored. I thank you.


GA · PGA [1:39:12]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Romania. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Czechia.


Czechia [1:39:30]:

Thank you, Mr. President.

For more than 12 years, Russia has sought to impose its authority on territories that are not its own, occupying land, installing administrations, attempting to redraw borders. Yet one thing remains unchanged. These territories remain part of Ukraine. The Czech Republic remains steadfast in its support for the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

As the.

Occupying power, Russia bears full responsibility under international humanitarian law for the situation in the territories under its temporary occupation. The findings of international monitoring mechanisms are deeply troubling. The Czech Republic condemns systemic violations of human rights in the occupied territories, including arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, forced assimilation, and imposed citizenship. Particularly alarming is the fate of Ukrainian children. The Czech Republic strongly condemns their forcible deportation and transfer from occupied territories and reiterates its call for the immediate return. The latest UN Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine report finds that these acts constitute crimes against humanity and grave violations of international law amounting to war crimes. Equally important is the Commission's conclusion that these crimes follow a consistent pattern. Responsibility, therefore, reaches beyond individual perpetrators. The Czech Republic therefore welcomes international initiatives to ensure accountability for the Russian crime of aggression against Ukraine. Mr. President, in the coming days, Russia will again hold so-called parliamentary elections in occupied Ukrainian territories. These will neither change the status of those territories, nor alter Ukraine's sovereignty, nor create legitimacy where none exists. They are another violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. These principles matter not only for Ukraine, but for every member state. If military force becomes an accepted path to territorial acquisition, the protection of the charter is weakened for all. For that reason, Mr. President, the Czech Republic will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary and to work towards a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace based on the principles of the Charter. I thank you.


Chair [1:42:38]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Czechia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.


United States of America [1:42:58]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair, and I thank Ukraine for organizing this debate. The Russia-Ukraine war rages on, 12 years after Russia invaded Crimea, and over four years since its full-scale invasion in 2022. In the years since, both Ukraine and Russia have paid a heavy toll. Lives lost, families separated, livelihoods and infrastructure destroyed. Only diplomacy can stem the death and destruction. Russia and Ukraine must return to the negotiating table as it is clear that no military solution exists for this war. The United States, once again, calls for an immediate ceasefire and good faith negotiations to return peace and stability to both countries. We support ongoing dialogue to end strikes against civilian vessels and infrastructure in the Black Sea. noting ongoing and worsening costs to global food security and oil supplies. The United States continues to play whatever constructive part it can to facilitate talks between Moscow and Kiev. Thank you.


Chair [1:44:30]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.


Japan [1:44:52]:

Mr. President, at the outset, Japan would like to express its heartfelt condolences for the continuing loss of many civilian lives and the damages caused by the recent Russian indiscriminate attacks across Ukraine, including in the capital, Kiev. Japan would also like to pay tribute to the Ukrainian people who are striving every day to bring peace to their homeland. Mr. President, it is deeply concerning that there is still no clear path to ending the fighting, even though four and a half years have passed since the Russian launched its unprovoked war of aggression against the sovereign state of Ukraine. Russia's aggression against Ukraine constitutes a clear and blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and is an outrageous act that shakes the very foundations of international order based on the rule of law. The preservation of sovereignty and territorial integrity is of the utmost importance and any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force must not be tolerated anywhere in the world. Also, any action that directly or indirectly supports Russia's aggression is itself a violation of international law, and all states complicit in such aggression must be held accountable. Japan is deeply concerned by the continued engagement of North Korea, including deployment of soldiers in the combat against Ukraine, which constitutes a clear violation of international law, including the UN Charter and the Security Council resolutions. Such unlawful military cooperation between Russia and DPRK is undermining peace and security in Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and beyond. Mr. President, Japan also expresses its respect for the efforts of all countries involved toward peace. Japan reiterates that Ukraine should continue to be supported in a manner that fully respects the Ukrainian people's will regarding their country's future. In order to achieve a swift and comprehensive ceasefire and a just and lasting peace, it is essential that relevant countries work together in unity and solidarity to support Ukraine, with the involvement of the United States in calling on Russia to take positive actions immediately. Mr. President, Japan will never waver in its consistent position of standing by the people of Ukraine. Japan has been steadily providing assistance to Ukraine and will continue to promote support for Ukraine and the sanctions against Russia in coordination with the international community. Japan will also continue to work on public-private partnership assistance for recovery and reconstruction in Ukraine. with their view to strengthening Ukraine's social and economic resilience. I thank you.


Chair [1:48:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.


Republic of Korea [1:48:27]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Pandor half years after Russia's full scale invasion over Ukraine, The war continues to exact a devastating human toll with no end yet in sight. As civilian suffering deepens, the urgency of protecting lives and bringing this war to a close has only grown. Against this backdrop, I would like to highlight three points. First, civilians must not continue to bear the cost of this war. We are alarmed by a sharp rise in civilian casualties, with the United Nations reporting that in July alone, at least 437 civilians were killed and more than 2,600 injured, the highest monthly civilian death toll since May 2022. Recent large-scale Russian missiles and drone attacks continue to damaging civilian infrastructure. Civilians must be protected and all parties must comply with international humanitarian law. Particular attention must also be paid to the temporarily occupied territory where civilians remain especially vulnerable to violations of their fundamental rights and threat to their safety. We hope to see the tangible progress, including the safe return of possibly transported children and other civilians separated from their families and homes. Second, the Republic of Korea remains seriously concerned about continuing military cooperation between Russia and DPRK. Despite repeated calls for its cessation, this cooperation continues unabated, including arms and ballistic missile transfers, troop deployments, and other forms of military support. Such cooperation continues to prolong the war while posing a serious threat to international peace and security. This military cooperation, including arms and ballistic missile transfers, is in clear violation of relevant Security Council resolutions and runs counter to the spirit and principles of the UN Charter. The Republic of Korea therefore urges Russia and the DPRK to immediately cease their unlawful military cooperation. Third, diplomatic engagement is essential to bring this war to an end. This is the war that should not have begun. and must now end without further delay. As the war drags on, the human toll continues to mount, devastation deepens, and the international order built on the principles of the UN Charter comes under increasing strain. The Republic of Korea supports diplomatic efforts by the United States and other relevant actors to bring the war to an end. and calls on all parties to engage constructively and demonstrate the political will needed for sustainable peace. Mr. Chair, the human cost of this war have already been immense, and the damage inflicted on civilian life and infrastructure is equally profound. Continued hostility will only deepen this suffering, and make the path to peace and recovery ever more difficult. This war must, therefore, be brought to an end as soon as possible. For its part, the Republic of Korea will continue to work constructively with the international community in support of efforts to bring this war to a close. We will also remain committed to addressing humanitarian needs and supporting recovery and reconstruction. I thank you.


Chair [1:52:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.


Portugal [1:53:03]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Portugal aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following in its national capacity. Portugal stands with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people providing assistance at all levels, both bilaterally and with our European Union and United Nations partner, and we will continue to do so. But our objective is not to prolong the war. It is to secure peace. We are alarmed with the increasing intensity of the Russian attacks, and we are appalled that the number of civilian deaths in July reached the highest level since May 2022, and that child casualties were highest since April 2022. The suffering should stop. We need an immediate and conditional and comprehensive ceasefire. We need space for serious negotiations. We must give diplomacy a chance. My country, therefore, supports all genuine diplomatic efforts towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace. firmly anchored in the Charter of the United Nations, a pathway that this General Assembly has called for and supported in several resolutions. That means respecting Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Territorial acquisition by force cannot be accepted or recognized. Occupation cannot become normalized and peace cannot be sustainable if it rewards aggression or legitimizes annexation. These are concrete steps that can and must be taken now. Prisoner exchanges must continue. Civilians unlawfully detained must be released. Humanitarian access must be ensured. And the thousands of Ukrainian children unlawfully deported or transferred must be returned immediately, unconditionally, and safely, in line with the resolution overwhelmingly adopted by this Assembly only a few months ago. These are tangible steps towards building the minimum confidence required for diplomacy to succeed. At the same time, the reality on the ground remains devastating. Civilian casualties continue to rise, including among children. Attacks affecting homes, hospitals, energy, and water infrastructure deepen human suffering and undermine the conditions for recovery. International humanitarian law is not optional. Civilians, humanitarian personnel, and civilian infrastructure should be protected. As the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs recently reminded us, Warfare technology may evolve, our legal obligations do not. We remain equally appalled by the human rights violations documented by the United Nations in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. Occupation does not suspend international law. The principles at stake here extend far beyond Ukraine. They are foundations of the international order on which every member state, large or small, depends. And the consequences of this war also extend far beyond Europe. Food insecurity, pressure on global markets, and threats to maritime security in the Black Sea affect countries far away, particularly the most vulnerable. Freedom and safety of navigation must therefore be protected and food supply chains should not become again a casualty of war. Our task now is to turn those principles into results and to go from words to action. The objective must remain clear, a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace, peace that ends suffering, peace that restores rights, and peace that upholds rather than weakens the universal principles of the charter that binds us all. I thank you, Mr. President.


Chair [1:57:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.


China [1:57:29]:

Zhu Xi.

President, as we gather again, the situation in Ukraine remains unresolved. Since GA last considered the issue of Ukraine, the situation on the ground has not only failed to ease, but has instead escalated further, with frequent violent attacks resulting in civilian casualties.

The hostilities have seriously impacted third party countries, which is a source of a deep concern and pain.

China calls on the parties concerned and the international community to work together to promote an early ceasefire, an end to the fighting and a political resolution to the crisis. First, China urges an end to all attacks targeting civilians.

And calls on the parties to remain calm and exercise restraint, strictly observe international humanitarian law, protect the safety of civilians and civilian.

Infrastructure, avoid harming civilians and civilian assets in third countries, and work towards keeping hope alive for an early realization of peace. Second, dialogue and negotiations are the only way out of this crisis. parties concerned must not abandon their efforts simply because negotiations are difficult, nor refuse to engage with each other simply because differences exist. Instead, they should remain patient, demonstrate goodwill, strive to get the talks off the ground, gradually build mutual trust and consensus, and in the end work together to reach a comprehensive, lasting and binding peace agreement. Third, despite tremendous difficulties on the ground, Russia and Ukraine have consistently moved forward with the exchange of POWs and the remains of fallen soldiers, which is indeed commendable. Every humanitarian operation carried out helps build up mutual trust between the two sides, which in turn has the potential to push dialogue and negotiations one step forward. Fourth, Countries in the region and the international community at large should voice more rational calls for a ceasefire and an end to the war, as well as for reconciliation and negotiations, and undergo more diplomatic efforts to build trust and facilitate mediation. Recklessly fanning the flames and exploiting the situation to foment division and confrontation will only intensify conflicts and differences, making the path to a political solution even more difficult.

Fifth, as the saying goes, a three-foot thick layer of ice does not form in a single day.

The current difficulties surrounding the crisis is a result of deep-rooted causes and complex factors. What the parties should do is not only to reflect on history and address the root causes, but also look to the future, striving to properly address each other's legitimate security concerns and to promote the establishment of a balanced, effective, and sustainable regional security architecture. Sixth, The continued spillover effect of the crisis has triggered secondary issues including shipping security.

Energy security, food security and the security of cross-border infrastructure.

The international community should unite to jointly safeguard the stability and smooth operation of global production and supply chains. President, China's position on the Ukrainian issue has been consistent and clear. President Xi Jinping has solemnly pointed out that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter be upheld, the legitimate security concerns of all countries be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to a peaceful resolution of.

The crisis be supported.

These four issues constitute China's authoritative position and fundamental guiding principles on the Ukrainian issue. China has maintained close communication with the parties and the international community, working in its own way to encourage reconciliation and promote dialogue, thereby playing its due role in building consensus among all parties and.

Advancing a political resolution to the crisis.

We are willing to work together with the international community to continue making greater efforts towards an early ceasefire and an end to the war, as well as towards achieving long-term stability and peace in the region. Thank you, President.


GA · PGA [2:01:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Moldova.


Republic of Moldova [2:02:14]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, colleagues, the Republic of Moldova aligns itself to the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to make the following remarks in its national capacity. Mr. President, Russia's illegal, unjustified, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine continues to cause immense human suffering and undermine the principles of the United Nations Charter. For more than four years, civilians have been killed and injured, families uprooted, and critical infrastructure destroyed. In the temporarily occupied territories, people continue to face repression and grave human rights violations. We remain deeply concerned about reports of unlawful detention, torture, and forced disappearances, conflict-related sexual violence, forced displacement, and the deportation and unlawful transfer of Ukrainian children. All alleged violations of international law must be independently investigated and those responsible held accountable. The Republic of Moldova does not recognise and will not recognise any change in the status of Ukraine's territories resulting from Russian aggression. So-called elections, referendums and other attempts to legitimise occupation have no validity under international law. They violate the United Nations Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereign territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, commend the courage of its people in defending their freedom, and call on the Russian Federation to cease its aggression and withdraw all its forces from Ukraine. Since the beginning of the full scale invasion, the Moldovan authorities have provided political, diplomatic and humanitarian support to Ukraine. The Republic of Moldova remains a reliable partner to Ukraine, including by offering the assistance to the displaced Ukrainian citizens, strengthening regional connectivity, facilitating transit of essential goods, contributing to Ukraine's energy resilience. We are committed to continuing our support to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. Mr. President, Russia's aggression has also directly affected the Republic of Moldova. Russian drones have repeatedly violated our sovereign airspace, while attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure have disrupted essential services and endangered our citizens. Our country has also confronted with disinformation, cyber attacks, electoral interference and energy blackmail aimed at destabilizing our society. These threats show that Moldova's security and Ukrainian security are inseparable. Stronger Ukrainian defense also means safer skies for Moldova and greater regional security. Excellencies, the Republic of Moldova supports all genuine efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace consistent with the UN Charter, international law, and relevant General Assembly resolutions. A ceasefire must neither legitimize territorial conquest nor freeze the consequences of aggression. It must lead to the restoration of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and be supported by credible security guarantees. There can be no durable peace without justice. The Republic of Moldova therefore supports international efforts to ensure accountability for all crimes committed in connection with Russia's aggression. We are proud to be among the founding members of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine within the framework of the Council of Europe. Together with the Register of Damage and the International Claims Commission for Ukraine, this represents an essential step forward towards justice and reparation for the victims. Mr. President, this work concerns wherever borders may be changed through force, occupation normalized, and sovereignty of smaller states disregarded. The answer of this assembly must remain clear. Aggression cannot be rewarded, occupation cannot be recognized, and peace cannot be built at the expense of the victim. The people of the Republic of Moldova stands with the people of Ukraine. Ukraine's independence strengthens our independence, its security strengthens our security. And a just peace for Ukraine will strengthen the rules-based international order upon which we all depend. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:07:33]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Republic of Moldova. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland.


Poland [2:07:52]:

Mr. President, at the outset I would like to thank you for convening this crucial meeting today. We recognise and appreciate the presence of Deputy Foreign Minister Marianna Bedza today with us and her informative, if sobering, statement. Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union, and I would like to add the following remarks in my national capacity. Mr. President, years pass, and yet we find ourselves in the same position, continuously appalled by Russia's illegal and coercive actions committed in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine since 2014. Forced Russification, deportation, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, militarization, and indoctrination of Ukrainian children, as well as severe mistreatment of detainees and prisoners of war, are just a few examples of Russia's policy implemented in Ukraine, policy aimed at shattering lives, rights, and identity of those living under occupation. According to the latest UN findings, more than 92% of civilians reported torture or ill treatment, or 30% referred to as acts of sexual violence. Thanks to the efforts of the OHCHR, we also know that displacement and property confiscation reinforce one another. People flee because of threats of fear of detention, but upon return, they may find their homes declared abandoned and confiscated by the occupier. In Donetsk and Luhansk alone, the UN has documented at least 5,600 private properties registered as abandoned. Equally troubling, yet not surprising, is Russia's human resources policy at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, where staff have experienced retaliation after refusing to sign contracts with Rosatom, a stark illustration of how human rights violations can put nuclear safety at risk. Even facts and figures are helpless when faced with Russia's inhumane policy towards the children. Transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children continue, just as denying access to education in Ukrainian language, and subjecting children to the so-called patriotic and military education, which is nothing more than yet another effort to erase their national identity. This must end. We welcome the conclusion of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry, according to which the deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children by Russian authorities constitute crimes against humanity as well as war crimes. We hope that every state present in this room today shares this view, not out of political correctness, but out of respect for the facts. Against this backdrop, accountability must remain at the center of our response. Russia's international crimes must be investigated and prosecuted, and victims must be granted access to justice and effective remedies. Even though the recent scale of Russian attacks proves that Moscow is unwilling to end its hostilities against Ukraine, we call on Russia for the hundredth time to stop its illegal and aggressive actions and to ensure unfettered access for independent international monitors to all temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. Mr. President, in conclusion, let me state clearly, Russia's provocative posture in the region and recent violations of airspace of Poland, Romania, Republic of Moldova, and Latvia by missiles and drones do not bring us close to ending the conflict. Perhaps a novelty for Russia, a country with actual neo-colonial ambitions, But undermining security architecture does not help restore peace. Complete and unconditional withdrawal from the illegally occupied territories does. Crimea, Sevastopol, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhia are Ukraine. We will not turn a blind eye to the atrocities committed by Moscow in Ukraine. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:11:50]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Turkey.


Türkiye [2:12:08]:

Mr. President, let me start by thanking Your Excellency for convening this debate on the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, as the war in Ukraine continues to have profound global implications for international peace and security. Let me reiterate Turkey's principal position. Turkey has been supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence since the occupation and illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014. Turkey maintains its firm stance of not recognizing the de facto situation. This position is not a matter of political preference. It is rooted in our commitment to the principles of the UN charter and international law, which remain critical in preserving the credibility of the multilateral system. Given our shared history, the well-being of the Crimean Tatars, our kinsmen, the preservation of their identity, culture, language and rights, and their ability to safety and dignity in their homeland are a matter of profound importance to Turkey. Crimean Tatars' heritage in the region should be safeguarded. We will continue to support Crimean Tatars with a view to preserving their identity and ensuring that they live in their historical homeland in peace and security. We are equally concerned about the broader human rights situation in the temporarily occupied territories and remain deeply concerned with the human cost of the war across Ukraine. Mr. President, behind every statistic stands a human life. That's why, since the outset, Turkey has consistently advocated for a negotiated settlement in Ukraine and proactively engaged in diplomatic efforts. It was Turkey who brought together the warring sides around the negotiating table in 2022 and '25. The Black Sea Grain Initiative demonstrated that concrete arrangements could be achieved even in the midst of a raging war when there is a sufficient political will and effective mediation. Last year, the three rounds of talks hosted in Istanbul yielded concrete progress, particularly in addressing urgent humanitarian concerns between the parties, including exchange of prisoners of war in substantial numbers. As the first direct encounter between the parties after years, the talks served as an important confidence-building measure. Currently, as the stalemate in the diplomatic process grinds on, we are alarmed by the escalation in war, causing many civilian losses and material damage. Civilians have suffered far too long. They deserve peace. Therefore, it is essential to revitalize the negotiation process between Russia and Ukraine. In that, the UN has a greater role to play. We must consistently uphold the principles of the UN Charter while ensuring that the organization remains capable of facilitating dialogue rather than becoming merely a platform for exchanging accusations. Furthermore, developments in the Black Sea pose an urgent and visible threat to the security of the wider region. Black Sea has a strategic importance for supplying grain and agricultural products to world markets. The reciprocal attacks in the maritime domain and disruption of sea trade leave countries in the global south vulnerable to rising food prices, once again demonstrating the far-reaching devastating consequences of the war. Mr. President, peace will require difficult compromises. It will require addressing thorny issues of security and legitimacy. But above all, it requires political courage. Yet, we are hopeful that further rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine may build a renewed momentum which will eventually pave the way to peace. We will continue to work for an end to this war through diplomacy. Turkey remains committed to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on the principles of international law and the UN Charter. Thank you again.


GA · PGA [2:17:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Turkey. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.


Austria [2:17:19]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, colleagues, last week Ukraine marked 35 years of independence.

Austria congratulates the Ukrainian people.

In 1991, more than 90% of Ukrainians voted for independence with a majority in every region, including Crimea.

Russia recognized Ukraine's sovereignty territorial integrity and borders shortly afterwards.

Yet today, Russia's actions stand in direct contradiction to these commitments.

As a military neutral country, Austria does not supply weapons. Our support is humanitarian and political.

Close to 100,000 Ukrainians have found refuge in Austria, and Austria has provided close to.

$400 million in bilateral financial and humanitarian assistance. in addition to its contribution through European Union budget and instruments. Three points are central to Austria's position. First, international law and the UN Charter must remain our guiding stars. Austria rejects the tenet that illegal occupation and the violation of any country's sovereignty are legitimate means of pursuing politics.

No country in the world should have to accept.

Facts that are established by military means in contravention of the charter.

Second, the occupation and the wider war have horrible consequences for civilians.

In occupied territory, UN reports, in particular by the OHCHR and Commission of Inquiry, document arbitrary detention, torture, and forced conscription. Civilians unlawfully transferred or deported, including children, must be returned, and international monitors must be granted access.

Attacks against civilians and civilian objects, as well as.

Indiscriminate attacks, violate international humanitarian law, which must be respected by all at all times.

Third, the immediate priority is to stop the fighting.

Austria calls for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire.

It should open the way to negotiations between the parties on a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace.

Based on the UN Charter and international law.

Austria is ready to offer its good offices and host talks in Vienna on the war in Ukraine and the broader question of the European security architecture.

The United Nations and the OSCE, both with headquarters in Vienna.

Could play an important role in the implementation of a ceasefire or a broader peace agreement.

In addition, we need to recall the humanitarian effects of the war extend far beyond Ukraine.

Attacks on Black Sea ports and commercial vessels disrupt agricultural exports, raising food prices worldwide. The effects are greatest in countries least able to absorb them.


Speaker 41 [2:20:21]:

Thank you. I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark.


Denmark [2:20:44]:

Mr. President, Denmark aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states. One week ago, Ukraine celebrated the 35th anniversary of regaining its independence. This was an independence hard fought and hard won. It was and remains an internationally recognized independence with internationally recognized borders and protections. Today, however, and for more than 12 years, those borders and protections have come under direct assault from the Russian Federation. For 12 years, in clear violations of the UN Charter, Russia has attempted to redraw Ukraine's borders by force, to erase Ukraine from the map, subjugate the Ukrainian people, and deny them their right to choose their own future. And for 12 years, Russia has failed. Mr. President, today's debate is a vital opportunity to send a strong and united message to the estimated 3.5 million Ukrainians trapped in the Russian temporarily occupied territories. A message of solidarity and of support. A reminder that the international community stands with them and has not forgotten them. Russia has long prevented independent observers, including UN bodies, from entering these territories. However, the testimonies of those who have managed to escape shine a light on what life under Russian occupation has become. It is a life where the most vulnerable, often children, suffer the most, where schools are used to reinforce political control and indoctrination, where the Ukrainian language is effectively banned and a Russian passport is required to graduate, where propaganda is relentless and military training for a foreign army is mandatory. This is the reality for hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories. And many thousands more, however, have been unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred to Russia itself. In this regard, Denmark demands that Russia fully complies with last year's General Assembly resolution demanding the immediate, safe and unconditional return of these children. Similarly, Ukrainian adults are also subjected to attempts to eradicate their identity. A Russian passport is needed to access all basic services. Ukrainians who refuse Russian citizenship risk deportation to Russia. Outward displays of Ukrainian identity and culture have become dangerous, with civilians regularly detained on false charges and subjected to arbitrary imprisonment and severe abuse. Political detainees are sent to penal colonies across the border in Russia. And as the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission has assessed, Ukrainians detained by Russia are subject to widespread and systematic torture and ill-treatment, including physical abuse, psychological terror, and sexual violence. Mr. President, the reported conditions Ukrainian experience in the occupied territories clearly violate international humanitarian law. Denmark condemns all violations of international humanitarian law in the strongest terms. Russia's illegal invasions of Ukraine have not led to peace, not in 2014, not in 2022, and not today. Denmark calls on Russia to immediately halt its illegal war of aggression and to accept Ukraine's offer of an unconditional, immediate and comprehensive ceasefire. This is the essential first step to a just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:24:57]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Denmark. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece.


Greece [2:25:22]:

Only last week, we commemorated the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, an independence explicitly recognised yet flagrantly violated by the Russian Federation. Russia attacked an illegally occupied sovereign territory of Ukraine in blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter. In Crimea, Sevastopol, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, Ukrainians are daily deprived of their human rights and fundamental freedoms. Russian attacks on Ukraine continue unabated. Since the beginning of the war, more than 16,000 civilians have been killed, including 820 children. Russian strikes increasingly target densely populated urban centers far from the front line, while long-range weapons, drones, and aerial bombardments continue to inflict a devastating toll on civilians. We condemn all attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure as a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and call for their immediate cessation. We also call upon Russia to ensure full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access in the illegally occupied territories of Ukraine. The human rights situation is equally alarming. Restrictions on freedom of expression, religion, and Ukrainian language education, coupled with arbitrary detentions, form part of the grim reality faced by Ukrainians daily. Politically motivated persecutions, cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, sexual violence, and forcible transfer of civilians, especially children, complete this bleak picture. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine and the UN Commission of Inquiry have been unequivocal in documenting these grave violations. Greece strongly condemns these violations and calls for thorough investigations and full accountability. We call upon Russia to grant international monitoring mechanism full access to the temporarily occupied territories. We further support the exchange of all prisoners of war and the release of all persons arbitrarily detained. We also reiterate our demand for the immediate return of all unlawfully deported or transferred Ukrainian children. The repercussions of the war extend far beyond Ukraine. Attacks against vessels and seaport infrastructure in the Black Sea threaten maritime security, global food security and international trade. Greece reiterates that freedom of navigation must be fully protected in accordance with international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. For our part, we remain committed to safeguarding maritime food supply chains through our commercial shipping fleet, as we all have done consistently in the past, provided that a secure, predictable operational environment is guaranteed. Colleagues, Russia must end its hostilities and return to the negotiating table. We reiterate our call for a full ceasefire as a first step towards meaningful negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in accordance with international law, the UN Charter and the General Assembly resolutions. We reaffirm our unwavering solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people. Greece remains committed to the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and rejects any attempt to alter borders by force. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:29:42]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Greece. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.


Mexico [2:30:06]:

Thank you very much, Mr President. Since the beginning of this conflict, Mexico has expressed its profound concern at its consequences. Our position stands firm and unchanged. International law cannot be applied selectively and the UN Charter should be respected in its entirety in all cases. International law also demands the effective protection of the civilian population and of humanitarian personnel in any conflict setting. This is particularly relevant in occupied territories. We recall that occupation does not grant sovereignty over an occupied territory nor does it exempt the occupying power from its international obligations. The reality remains catastrophic. Densely populated areas have suffered recurrent attacks that have caused serious damage to homes, schools, hospitals, and cultural sites. According to the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, between January and July this year, the fighting killed 1,839 people and wounded another 10,638. This is a 44% rise when compared with the same period in 2025 and more than double the number of the victims in 2024. This is compounded by the worsening conditions for humanitarian assistance. This year so far in Ukraine, at least 10 humanitarian workers have died and 39 have been wounded. Behind these figures are lives cut short, families displaced and entire communities suffering a protracted war. We mustn't overlook the overwhelming need to address the impact of the conflict on the mental health and well being of women and children who have suffered mental trauma related to the direct experience of physical and sexual violence. Mexico notes with concern the repercussions of arms transfers in this conflict that heighten the risks for weapons diversion, indiscriminate use and the loss of control over those weapons. We condemn the use of explosive arms in densely populated areas and we reject the use of weapons that are banned under international law such as cluster munitions and anti-personnel mines due to their indiscriminate and harmful effects on the civilian population. We unequivocally condemn Uh, we need to also be, uh, emphatic that any attacks on nuclear facilities, must be brought to an end. Mr President, the end of this war shouldn't be measured by the military capacity of the parties, but rather by the determination and commitment to make diplomacy the instrument for a negotiated, lasting and acceptable solution for both sides. We value the various proposals, peace proposals made by the other countries. As a member of the Group of Friends for Peace in Ukraine, Mexico remains committed to building bridges of dialogue between the various actors and to establishing an enabling environment for any peace negotiation. Mexico reiterates the importance for the UN to play an active role and to serve as the guarantor for any peace agreement with the participation of the parties involved. We underscore that peace should address the needs and aspirations of the population while also preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine in accordance with international law. We cannot allow the prolonged conflict to make civilian suffering, the destruction of infrastructure, and nuclear risk a new normality. Our responsibility is to enforce one of the most emblematic sentences in the UN Charter's preamble, which is to preserve succeeding generations from war. Thank you.


GA · PGA [2:33:55]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia.


Slovenia [2:34:11]:

Mr. President, Slovenia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union. Russia's illegal occupation of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol began in 2014. Since then, Russia has expanded its illegal occupation to parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 marked a dramatic escalation of its aggression. This war of aggression constitutes a blatant breach of the core principles of the United Nations charter. It violates Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Slovenia has been clear on this from the beginning. Crimea and Sevastopol, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions are part of Ukraine. Internationally recognized borders cannot be changed by force. Against this background, Slovenia is deeply concerned by the sharp rise in civilian casualties. Recent UN reporting shows that the human cost of Russia's aggression continues to grow. We condemn attacks against civilians and civilian objects, as well as indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks in the strongest possible terms. International humanitarian law must be respected at all times. Mr. President, children require our particular attention. Slovenia strongly condemns the unlawful deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children by Russian authorities to Russian territory or to areas they occupied in Ukraine. The Independent International Commission of Inquiry in Ukraine has found that such acts in the situation it examined amount to war crimes. Thousands of Ukrainian children have been deprived of their liberty, subjected to alternation of their identity, indoctrination, and even adoptions, and have suffered from trauma and anxiety. These practices must end. Slovenia calls upon Russia to ensure the immediate, safe, and unconditional return of all unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred Ukrainian children to Ukraine. The protection of children in strict compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law must remain a priority. Mr. President, there must be accountability for these violations. A just peace cannot be built on impunity. Slovenia reaffirms our support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, grounded in international law and the UN Charter, including respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia must end its violations of international law. It must end its illegal occupation of Ukrainian territory and respect the rights and dignity of the people living under occupation. It must cease its war of aggression against Ukraine. A just and lasting peace must be based on the UN Charter, international law, and full respect for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:36:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Croatia.


Croatia [2:37:06]:

Thank you, President. Croatia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I wish to add some remarks in my national capacity. Mr. President, in July, the High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that civilian casualties in Ukraine increased by an appalling 40% during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period last year. intensified targeted attacks on populated areas, as well as the large-scale use of drones along the front lines, are taking a heavy toll on the civilian population, which has already been suffering for years. At the same time, limited access to information from occupied territories means that its true scale is likely considerably higher. In addition, reports from these territories continue to reveal a persistent pattern of violence and serious human rights violations by the Russian Federation. freedoms are severely restricted protected persons are forcibly conscripted into Russian armed forces and children are denied access to Ukrainian education the treatment of detainees is particularly alarming Ukrainian civilians continue to be detained in occupied territories or transferred to detention facilities in Russia more than 95% of released Ukrainian prisoners of war registered by OICHR reported torture or ill treatment OHCHR has also documented executions of prisoners of war and deaths in custody, including as a result from torture, denial of medical care, and inhumane detention conditions. These findings further confirm that Russia's war of aggression continues to be marked by grave violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Mr. President, Croatia strongly supports diplomatic efforts aimed at ending Russia's aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and sustainable peace as soon as possible. Meaningful diplomacy pursued in good faith and with clarity of purpose is indispensable. But a ceasefire alone cannot provide lasting peace. It must be part of a comprehensive settlement firmly grounded in the UN Charter and international law. Based on its own experience of imposed war and occupation all the way to the full territorial reintegration, including by peaceful and diplomatic means, Croatia can attest that durable peace requires patience and perseverance, respect for fundamental principles, justice, and accountability. Borders cannot be changed by force, and aggression must not be rewarded with territory. Even in times of armed conflict, civilian population, as well as prisoners of war, must be protected and human rights fully respected. Croatia, therefore, remains firmly committed to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and will continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine and its people. I thank you.


GA · PGA [2:40:06]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Croatia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.


Brazil [2:40:26]:

Mr. President, four years on, the conflict in Ukraine has taken a devastating human toll and yielded far-reaching consequences for international peace and security. Today, the conclusion is crystal clear. A resolution to this conflict will not be found in the military domain. Further escalation will only bring more destruction and death, deepen mistrust and hatred and make the path towards peace ever more difficult. Brazil reiterates its call for de-escalation and for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire. All efforts should be directed at creating conditions for meaningful negotiations. Only diplomacy can bring a just and lasting peace, in accordance with our charter and considering the legitimate security concerns of the parties involved. But while diplomacy understandably takes time, human suffering must cease without any further delay. The human consequences of this conflict have been devastating. International humanitarian law applies to all parties, at all times, without exception. Civilians and civilian objects must be protected. Attacks against homes, hospitals, energy systems, and other infrastructure indispensable to civilian life must stop immediately. The principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution must be strictly and unconditionally observed. Military operations involving or conducted in the vicinity of nuclear installations may have consequences that could extend far beyond the battlefield. Such facilities must never become targets of military operations. Brazil is particularly concerned by the extensive use of unmanned aerial systems in the conflict and their negative humanitarian impact. Regardless of the technology employed, all parties must fully respect international humanitarian law by ensuring meaningful human control over weapons systems employed in the conflict. In 2025, global military spending exceeded $2.8 trillion, a 41% increase over the past decade, and at least 16 times the amount of international development assistance. Every dollar spent on armaments is a dollar not spent on fighting hunger, poverty, inequality, and climate change. Every additional day of this war increases the human, economic, and political cost of peace. We should not resign into managing an indefinite protracted conflict. Our collective responsibility is to help bring it to an end. Thank you very much.


GA · PGA [2:43:19]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.


France [2:43:36]:

Mr President, I would like to begin by welcoming the participation here of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Marianna Betza. And to complement the EU statement on behalf of the Member States, I would like to add the following. 35 years ago the Ukrainian parliament proclaimed the independence of the country. This was a choice that was confirmed a few months later by a referendum that garnered 92% favorable votes for the nationality across all of the regions of the country. The independence of Ukraine and the tracing of its borders were then recognized by the international community, including Russia, which committed at the time to respect them. Contravening these bilateral commitments and flouting the United Nations Charter, Russia in 2014 called into question the territorial integrity of Ukraine by by illegally annexing Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. In 2014, the General Assembly already denounced the sham referendum organised at the time and decided that it was not valid, it could not serve as a basis for any modification to the status. After in 2022 launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia illegally annexed four additional regions of Ukraine, Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhia. In October 2022, almost four years ago, this Assembly also condemned this attempted illegal annexation. This also carried out through a sham referendum. Mr President, France roundly condemns the policies conducted by Russia in the occupied Ukrainian territories. The report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights reports grave violations, repeated persistent violations, be they displacement, forced deportation, arbitrary detention, acts of torture and treatment in detention, but also violations of the rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and freedom of religion. France also wishes to express its profound concern with regard to the documented measures to impose Russian citizenship, to expropriate goods, to restrict the expressions of Ukrainian citizenship. These are unacceptable and profoundly affect the ability of the population to live freely and to preserve its identity. Such practices are part of a determination to to that had no legal validity. We reaffirm our support for the international mechanisms to establish the facts and to combat impunity. The protection of human rights must remain at the heart of our collective action. No peace, can be lasting if it is founded while undermining human dignity, and no grave violation should go unresponded. Every day of the escalation is ever more deadly, carried out by Moscow against the civilian population and vital infrastructure. We call on Russia to seriously respond to the offers of mediation made. It falls solely to Russia to accept a ceasefire demanded by the vast majority of UN Member States. Mr President, France and its partners will continue to work for a peaceful settlement of the dispute. We will continue to provide Ukraine with the support that it needs to defend its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Thank you very much.


GA · PGA [2:48:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative of France. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany.


Germany [2:48:20]:

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies. Germany aligns itself with a statement delivered by the European Union. We meet today to address the ongoing and severe human rights crisis unfolding across the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. In more than four years of Russia's ongoing war of aggression, we have witnessed the most egregious violations of human rights and of international law. And please allow me to highlight three areas of particular concern. First, we are gravely concerned about the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and unlawfully detained civilians captivated by Russia. The findings of UN human rights monitoring missions are deeply disturbing. They document widespread and systematic torture and ill treatment of prisoners of war and civilians in Russian captivity. We reiterate the call for unhindered, immediate and regular access by the International Committee of the Red Cross and other independent human rights mechanisms. We call on the Russian Federation to immediately end all torture and ill-treatment and to ensure adequate detention conditions and medical care. Second, Germany remains deeply alarmed by the systematic violence against children. The ongoing listing of Russian armed forces and affiliated groups for grave violations against children, including the killing and maiming of children and attacks on protected civilian objects such as schools and hospitals, underscores Russia's blatant disregard for international laws protecting children in war zones. The unlawful deportation and forced transfer of Ukrainian children is a gross violation of international law and amounts to crimes against humanity. We utterly condemn these acts. The systematic separation of children from their families, the forcible alteration of their personal status, citizenship and identity, and efforts to obstruct their repatriation are unbearable. They demand a unified response. The Secretary-General's annual report on children and armed conflict, the Office of the High Commissioner and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe have all verified and documented the appalling scale of abduction and forced transfer of Ukrainian children by the Russian authorities. We reiterate our unwavering call for the immediate safe and unconditional return of all abducted Ukrainian children to their families or legal guardians. Third, we strongly condemn Russia's use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, torture and repression. Sexual violence has been used to terrorize and humiliate, to punish and intimidate Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, forming a systematic pattern of violence and repression by Russia. We welcome the Secretary-General's decision in this year's annual report on conflict-related sexual violence to list the Russian armed and security forces. These violations must stop. Survivors must have unhindered and immediate access to comprehensive medical and psychosocial support and justice, and perpetrators must be held accountable. Germany actively supports international accountability and justice for crimes committed during Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine through legal, financial, and investigative assistance. To this end, we support the establishment of an international claims commission and the special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We also support the investigations by the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, both financially and by seconding experts. Mr. President, excellencies, Germany stands with the people of Ukraine. We reaffirm our support for Ukrainian independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. And we are committed to pursue accountability for Russia's consistent violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. I thank you very much.


GA · PGA [2:52:41]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.


Indonesia [2:53:05]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Peace lies at the core of the United Nations mandate. Yet across the world, conflicts endure, divisions widen, and the prospect of peace remains distant. Ukraine has now endured more than three years of war, with continuing loss of life, human suffering, and destruction. Its consequences are also being felt well beyond the battlefield. The international community continues to expect the United Nations to help chart a path toward peace. We must therefore maintain a firm, consistent, and collective message to all parties. First, end the hostilities and secure a durable ceasefire. Let us continue to make a clear and unified call for an end to hostilities. This is indispensable to creating the conditions for meaningful peace talks. Only then can genuine space for diplomacy and meaningful negotiations emerge. Second, uphold the UN Charter and international law. Lasting peace can only be built on respect for international law, including international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilians infrastructure must be protected at all times. Humanitarian assistance must reach all those in need safely and without impediment. Indonesia has contributed concretely to Ukraine's recovery. We have supported the reconstruction of medical facilities in Ukraine, reflecting our commitment to tangible humanitarian action. Furthermore, we underscore the urgency of international cooperation to enhance capacity to deliver humanitarian aid. Third, intensify efforts toward dialogue and a peaceful settlement. Indonesia remains convinced that dialogue is the only viable path out of this prolonged conflict. We must never relent Let me repeat, we must never relent in our efforts to pursue this goal. The international community must help create the conditions necessary for the resumption of meaningful negotiations. Indonesia underscores the vital role of the United Nations, particularly the General Assembly, the Security Councils, in advancing multilateralism, dialogue and promoting peace, including through the peaceful, safe and responsible use of emerging technologies. Hence, we should also support credible peace initiatives that address the underlying causes of the conflict. This is in line with our collective efforts to further invest in peace and enhance mediation. Mr. President, in Indonesia stresses that the pursuit of peace must be consistent and free from double standards, whether in Ukraine, Gaza, or elsewhere. Humanity must prevail over politics interest. Thank you.


GA · PGA [2:56:50]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Georgia.


Georgia [2:57:14]:

Mr. President, distinguished delegates, Georgia aligns with the statement

delivered by the European Union, and I would like to deliver the following remarks in my national capacity. At the outset, let me highlight the importance of maintaining the General Assembly's close attention to the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine as Russia's ongoing aggression continues to pose a grave challenge to international peace and security and to the fundamental principles of international order. We reiterate Georgia's unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and territorial waters. We remain firmly committed to the principle that internationally recognized borders cannot be altered through the use of or threat of force.

We are also deeply concerned by the continued reports of serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law

in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and in areas under the control of Russian Federation.

Reports of torture and ill treatment, arbitrary detention and forced disappearances,

Conflict-related sexual violence, summary executions and other grave violations demand the continued attention of the international community. International humanitarian law must always be respected.

Distinguished delegates, Georgia knows firsthand the long-term human cost of illegal occupation.

For more than three decades, Russia's illegal occupation of Georgia's Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions has continued to affect the security, human rights, and humanitarian situation on the ground. International monitoring mechanisms continue to face restrictions to access these regions, while conflict-affected populations continue to face serious challenges. This experience has reinforced Georgia's conviction that sustained international engagement, independent monitoring, and accountability are indispensable for protecting human rights and preventing the normalization of occupation. We condemn Russia's unprovoked, full-scale and illegal invasion of Ukraine. This constitutes a grave violation of international law and infringes upon the fundamental principles enshrined in the UN Charter and Helsinki Final Act. The international community must remain united and resolute. The manner in which we respond to aggression, occupation and violations of international law today will have consequences far beyond current conflict. Excellencies, Georgia supports all genuine efforts to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. We'll continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine and Ukrainian people and to support efforts to restore peace and uphold international law. I thank you.


President [3:00:17]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Georgia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Thailand.


Thailand [3:00:34]:

Mr. President, Thailand continues to follow developments in Ukraine with profound concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis marked by the tragic loss of innocent lives, the destruction of critical civilian infrastructure, and the severe suffering endured by civilians. on the ground. At this critical juncture, my delegation wishes to highlight three key points. First, the prolonged and escalated conflict is gravely concerning. The increased drone attacks have severely affected civilians and infrastructure with devastating humanitarian consequences. Thailand therefore urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, fully respect international law, including international humanitarian law, and take immediate steps to de-escalate the conflict and protect civilians. Second, Thailand stresses the importance of sustained humanitarian assistance, humanitarian demining, and efforts towards rehabilitation and rebuilding in affected areas. These efforts are essential to restoring livelihoods, agricultural land and basic infrastructure and close to supporting the safe and sustainable return of affected communities. To this end, Thailand has provided humanitarian relief in the form of financial contributions and supported humanitarian demanding efforts which are vital for restoring local livelihoods. Third and finally, Thailand fully supports the peaceful settlement of disputes and reiterates its call on all parties to re-initiate peace negotiation efforts in a constructive and meaningful manner. President, Thailand reaffirms its unerring commitment to international law and the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, which must remain the foundation for addressing the situation and for advancing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Thank you.


President [3:03:09]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovakia.


Slovakia [3:03:30]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, delegates, we are living in profoundly challenging times when international law is increasingly disregarded and the fundamental principles upon which this organization was established are too often sidelined. Today, our collective responsibility to defend those ideals, halt the suffering on Ukrainian soil, and restore peace to our continent is more urgent than ever. Mr. President, as an immediate neighbor of Ukraine, Slovakia witnesses the immense human suffering and regional instability caused by this war. From the very beginning, our position has remained clear and principled. We fully respect and uphold the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. The action of Russian Federation constitutes a grave violation of international law and the UN Charter. Slovakia strongly condemns the systematic violation of human rights and international humanitarian law. The continued attack against civilians, residential areas, and critical infrastructure are entirely intolerable. Mr. President, Slovakia firmly maintains that this conflict has no military solution. A lasting and comprehensive peace requires an end to hostilities and a resolute return to diplomatic negotiations. We support all genuine international mediation efforts carried out in full accordance with the UN Charter. Slovakia does not merely speak of peace. We actively work to alleviate the burdens of this war through practical neighborly solidarity. We continue to provide humanitarian assistance, support for Ukraine's energy security, civil shelter constructions, and specialized demining capabilities. Mr. President, Slovakia renewed its call for active diplomacy, humanitarian relief, and a just and lasting peace, one that fully respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine in accordance with the international law and the UN Charter. Thank you very much for the floor and for your attention, Mr. President.


GA · President [3:06:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovakia. I now give the floor to the observer of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.


IPU · IPU · Observer [3:06:24]:

Thank you, President. For over 135 years, the IPU has worked for peace through multilateralism and parliamentary diplomacy. The IPU was founded on the belief that lasting peace begins when representatives of nations, friends and foes, meet, listen and try to find solutions. when words are exchanged instead of bullets. In its resolution and multiple pronouncement, the IPU has strongly reaffirmed the principles at the heart of international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the prohibition of the use and threat of force to resolve disputes. These pillars are a system designed to protect us all. And when these pillars are flouted and ignored, international relations become unstable, unpredictable, and dangerous. The war in Ukraine has torn apart communities, cost countless lives, and forced millions from their homes. It has shaken to the core, the very order that had preserved peace in Europe sees the end of the Cold War. The IPU has spoken clearly. From the outset, the IPU has called for the urgent need to bring about a ceasefire, secure human corridors, a return to diplomacy. It has condemned Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, as well as the unlawful annexation of its territories. The IPU Task Force on the peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine, established in the spring of 2022, took this principle to heart. It has opened parliamentary discussion with both Ukrainian and the Russian Federation on nuclear safety, food security, environmental harm, the treatment of prisoners, and the tragic fate of displaced and abducted Ukrainian children. These exchanges are modest steps, but they keep the path to dialogue open and lay the groundwork for peace tomorrow, a just and lasting peace uncovered in the fundamental principle of international law. Delegates, peace is more than the end of violence. It's not achieved simply when guns fall silent. True peace demands a foundation built on human security, on societies where every individual can live in dignity, free from fear and injustice, and on community that give each person the chance to thrive. Lasting peace rests on a simple truth. No nation can be secure in isolation. Peace is not an abstract goal, but a daily effort, an act of solidarity of empathy and of political courage. On behalf of the IPU, I encourage all of us here to commit to working for peace in Ukraine. Ukraine now.


GA · President [3:10:19]:

I thank the observer of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. We have heard the last speaker in the debate on this item. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to conclude its consideration of agenda item 63? I hear no objection. It is so decided. Agenda item 99 will be considered in the afternoon in this hall. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you. Thank you. Oh. foreign Thank you. foreign Thank you. foreign